It is officially damn cold. Technically winter is not here yet, but after this past week, who is going to argue? So you know what blistering cold weather means? Hot toddies! — Those toasty adult beverages that curl your toes and warm your cockles.



There are many traditional holiday beverages that we can enjoy, but what are they and where can we get them? Many are imported, and others you can make at home. Here are some of my suggestions to spice up your holiday:



GLÖGG — This Swedish spiced wine is popular during Advent and gets its punch from the addition of brandy. To take the chill off cold winter nights, it’s served hot with several almonds and raisins added. I’ve seen this sold at IKEA, but this version is alcohol free, so a trip to the liquor store might be in order.



WASSAIL — Ves heill, Norse for “be in good health,” is an old toast and the origin of this word. Wassail is a drink consisting of ale or wine sweetened with sugar and flavored with spices. It is usually served in a large punch bowl garnished with roasted apples.



CHRISTMAS MEAD — Dating back to Biblical times, mead is a beverage made by fermenting honey, water and yeast with flavorings such as herbs, spices or flowers. Mead was made popular in early England. It can be served cold, warm or hot. You make it Christmas Mead by heating it and adding cinnamon sticks and cloves.



GLUHWËIN — is usually prepared from red wine, heated and spiced with cinnamon sticks, vanilla pods, cloves, citrus and sugar. Among the first signs of fall in Germany are the open-air market stalls serving Gluhwëin. We in America need more open-air markets if not so we can drink hot spiced wine!



EGGNOG — Even though eggnog is not served hot (that would be gross, can you imagine) there is still something warm and comforting about it. I guess that would be the rum you add! Whiskey isn’t half bad either. Don’t forget the nutmeg.



HOT BUTTERED RUM — Now we’re talking! My mom had the best recipes that called for vanilla ice cream and lots of butter. Don’t forget the salt. I know that sounds weird, but just a little salt added to anything sweet will enhance the flavor. Oh, and rum!



PEPPERMINT PATTY — The easy recipe called for hot cocoa and peppermint schnapps. Others get a little fancier and call for Kahlua. If you really want a Peppermint Patty that is the poop, use chocolate Godiva liqueur, peppermint schnapps and warm milk or half-n-half. Don’t forget to garnish with a candy cane!



HOT TODDY — We can’t forget the original. I think my parents drank a lot of these! Simple but effective, this recipe calls for hot water, whiskey, honey, lemon and spices. It will cure what ails you.



It’s time for the hot toddy comeback! Snuggle with your honey, stay warm and sip responsibly. Happy holidays everybody!